John of Leyden

(the prophet), being about to marry Bertha, met with three
Anabaptists who observed a strong likeness in him to a picture of David
in Munster cathedral. They entered into conversation with him, and
finding him apt for their purpose, induced him to join their rebellion.
The rebels took the city of Munster, and John was crowned “ruler of
Westphalia.” His mother met him in the street, and John disclaimed all
knowledge of her; but subsequently visited her in prison, and obtained
her forgiveness. When the emperor arrived with his army, John's
Anabaptist friends deserted him, and “the prophet,” setting fire to the
banquet-room of his palace, perished with his mother in the flames. (Meyerbeer: Le Prophéte [an opera]).